CDM Archive

Discipleship Ministries of the PCA

Stephen Estock

2013 Reformation Inserts

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Reformation Sunday is October 27, 2013. We believe history is “His story;” therefore, we should ask what God would have us learn from past events. Order this important resource and commemorate God’s great work in the Reformation.

Deadline to order is October 1, 2013
Orders will ship beginning October 7, 2013

To order, call 1.800.283.1357 or click here. Inserts are full color and come in packs of 50. To preview the inserts click here.

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Please Partner with us in the Ministry of CEP

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As CEP opens a new chapter under the leadership of Coordinator Stephen Estock, an important goal is to see growth in the number of PCA churches who contribute to the ministry. In 2012, 32% of PCA congregations contributed in some way to sustain the work of CEP. Our hope is to see over 50% of PCA churches express in a tangible way the connectional nature of our Presbyterian polity. Some churches are able to give much (e.g., above the “ministry ask” of $7/member), while others are only able to give a portion of their share (e.g., $100, $500, etc.). Whenever a congregation provides a gift (of any amount), it is a physical expression of encouragement and support. If your church is part of the 32%, we thank you for your partnership with us. If you are part of the 68% that has yet to contribute, we prayerfully ask you to join with us as we seek to connect and equip those who serve the local church in the area of discipleship ministries. If you don’t know if your church support CEP- ask your session.

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Beginnings

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June 17, 2013

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]In the summer before her 12th birthday, my daughter joined a swim team for the first time. It was a new beginning. Though she knew the basics, she had never learned all of the different strokes, so the first day of practice was very difficult. After 15 minutes, she wanted to quit: she didn’t understand all that said; she was anxious due to her lack of experience; and she was not sure all would end well. She got out of the pool and, with tears in her eyes, asked mom if she could go home. Mom gently, but firmly, told her to persevere. With the “give up option” removed, she returned to the pool and into the presence of a kind coach who helped her make it through the practice.

Beginnings can trigger insecurity, and often the “give up option” is very attractive. Moses and Jeremiah struggled as they began new roles in their service to God (Ex 3:10-12, Jer. 1:6-8). In both cases, God called them to persevere, YET he gave them an empowering promise: “I will be with you.”

In a new day of ministry, imperfections and insecurities make beginnings difficult. The power to persevere comes with remembering the presence of God and his desire to bear fruit through the efforts of even the weakest servant. My daughter may never be an Olympic swimmer, and you and I may never be giants in ministry. Yet, the beginning gives an opportunity – an opportunity to move forward fully secure in the presence of God.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]